1 Unfriendly people care only about themselves;

they lash out at common sense.

2 Fools have no interest in understanding;

they only want to air their own opinions.

3 Doing wrong leads to disgrace,

and scandalous behavior brings contempt.

4 Wise words are like deep waters;

wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.

5 It is not right to acquit the guilty

or deny justice to the innocent.

6 Fools’ words get them into constant quarrels;

they are asking for a beating.

7 The mouths of fools are their ruin;

they trap themselves with their lips.

8 Rumors are dainty morsels

that sink deep into one’s heart.

9 A lazy person is as bad as

someone who destroys things.

10 The name of the Lord is a strong fortress;

the godly run to him and are safe.

11 The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense;

they imagine it to be a high wall of safety.

12 Haughtiness goes before destruction;

humility precedes honor.

13 Spouting off before listening to the facts

is both shameful and foolish.

14 The human spirit can endure a sick body,

but who can bear a crushed spirit?